There is a general impression that Pakistan has entered into a shining phase of its diplomacy as, so far, it has succeeded in maintaining a strategic balance in the backdrop of fast-changing global and international scenarios but serious questions are being raised whether it would continue steady walk on the tight rope because of the complexities of the geo-strategic environment and limitations of the country.

It is an undeniable reality that the way the civil-military leadership tackled the challenge thrown by Indian belligerency and aggression in May 2025 and the situation arising out of the crisis contributed a lot in carving out a place of respect for the country in the comity of nations. The principled stand taken by the country on the issues involved, professionalism of the armed forces and deftly crafted diplomatic approach not only thwarted nefarious designs of the enemy but also boosted prestige and global standing of Pakistan. As has been highlighted by a number of developments including restoration of peace in the Middle-East and security and stability in Afghanistan, Pakistan is now consulted and its advice and assistance sought on regional and global issues. It has become a proactive member of the Islamic Ummah and the warm welcome accorded to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir during their visits to various countries and productive nature of discussions held with hosts reflected the growing importance, relevance and influence of the country.

The most striking aspect of the evolving situation is the historic defence agreement signed by Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which will go a long way in determining the course of events in this part of the globe and the Middle-East. This NATO-style accord envisages that aggression against any one country will be considered as aggression against both. It was a pleasant surprise that the bilateral agreement with KSA evoked no adverse reaction from our neighbor and brotherly country Iran and instead its President Masoud Pezeshkian, while addressing the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, welcomed the landmark deal as the beginning of a ‘comprehensive regional security system’. There is a likelihood that other regional countries might also strike similar pacts or become part of the Pak-Saudi deal, which will bring about a paradigm shift in the security environment of the region.

Pakistan’s policy of maintaining friendly ties with China and increasing bilateral cooperation with the United States and the Russian Federation is also considered a remarkable diplomatic feat. However, of late, there is a growing concern that the country was warming up with the United States at the expense of strategic relations with the........

© Pakistan Observer